In 2369, Data observed that a function of small talk is to fill silent moments with non-relevant conversation and that Humans often use small talk during awkward moments. Wishing to learn as much about Humanity as possible, Data wrote a subroutine for his own programming enabling him to small talk. Upon attempting small talk with Jean-Luc Picard, Data was advised by the captain to keep an eye on Commander Calvin Hutchinson, who was notoriously known to be quite a small-talker. Picard, who disliked Hutchinson's exaggerated use of small talk, went as far as to ironically referring to him as a "master of small talk." (TNG: "Starship Mine")

When Captain Kathryn Janeway first activated The Doctor in 2371, she commented that his personality could use some work and he replied that "I'm designed to practice medicine as efficiently as possible. Small talk only compromises my performance." (VOY: "Relativity")

Seven ultimately found the exercise pointless, but The Doctor pointed out to her that small talk is "a vital dating skill [that] helps to establish a rapport with your companion." (VOY: "Someone to Watch Over Me")